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Accounts Quote by Malcolm Muggeridge

“This life in us; however low it flickers or fiercely burns, is still a divine flame which no man dare presume to put out, be his motives never so humane and enlightened; To suppose otherwise is to countenance a death-wish; Either life is always and in all circumstances sacred, or intrinsically of…” quote by Malcolm Muggeridge
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“This life in us; however low it flickers or fiercely burns, is still a divine flame which no man dare presume to put out, be his motives never so humane and enlightened; To suppose otherwise is to countenance a death-wish; Either life is always and in all circumstances sacred, or intrinsically of no account; it is inconceivable that it should be in some cases the one, and in some the other.”

Malcolm Muggeridge

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Sanctity of Life", 1972

Life is inherently sacred, regardless of its condition, and must never be extinguished by any motive.

In simple terms: All life is sacred and must be protected.

Key Takeaway

Defend life in every circumstance.

Themes

ethics value of life human dignity

Mood

serious contemplative

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • medical ethics debates
  • war conflicts
  • environmental policy
  • personal health decisions

Key Concepts

moral philosophy existential value human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is all life equally sacred?
  • When, if ever, is ending life permissible?
A Different Perspective

Some argue life quality can justify ending it.

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